I was lucky to find a large group of ca. 1900 German balancing toys, not having had a one in all my years of collecting toys. I must admit, they did take some getting used to. I was nervous at first placing the rear legs close to the end of the shelf and then giving them all a gentle tap on the head to start them rocking back and forth. The heavy metal weights are the key.

Here I have a little wooley dog and two riders on horseback. George Washington on the right was a much-produced figure by the Germans for the American market, often in the form of a candy container.

On the left a large Googly rides on a papier-mache horse, as does a jester on the right. In the center is a rare red-coated Santa on a felt-covered horse.

All of the balance toys have a cone-shaped heavy metal weight at the end, except for the Googly which has a heavy metal ball painted in a marbelized green . . . my favorite!

Susan's Page

Welcome to Living Tastefully’s “Antique of the Week” page. Our love of antiques is reflected in every aspect of our everyday lives. We are passionate about collecting and also love functional antiques that can actually be used and not only admired. Hopefully we can inspire you to incorporate antiques in your home and your life to add charm and beauty to your surroundings.